British Heavyweight Weekend: What did we learn?

By Paul McT: Both Tyson Fury and David Price were in action over the last two days, both came away with a win but what did each fight say about how far these prospects have come?

Friday night boxing in Britain is uncommon, but a welcome addition nonetheless. Friday’s action was interesting, with Price fighting a tough weathered fighter in Matt Skelton, and Andrew ”Freddie” Flintoff facing off against Richard Dawson, a fellow novice. The less said about the Flintoff fight the better, although I myself appreciate the publicity boxing received.

David Price: More of the same

Yet another brutal knockout victory for the softly spoken Price showcased his power, again. As impressive as his power is, the recent lack of rounds is dangerous, we have yet to see him being pushed or even have his defence tested.

It’s probably the best complaint that can be made, but right now he’s too powerful for a fair measure to be taken. Matt Skelton began the fight with a rushing tactic that seemed to take Price by surprise, landing well. Unfortunately that was as promising as it got for Skelton as he was beaten for the duration of the fight. One surprise however was his response to one of David Price’s huge right hands-he took it, and showed it didnt affect him. I genuinely believe the blast he took to the head did very little to subdue him. Skelton however show boated a bit too early, as a vicious string of shots to the body made him crumple like an egg in a blender.

Overall, an impressive display of power from David Price but the relative ease a which Skelton was able to land should be a major focus in training. If his defence is brought up a bit, I don’t see why he can’t challenge someone on the world stage, perhaps Wach? Massive fighters, massive punching power and Wach has a massive chin, in both size and durability. Tony Thompson seems likely though, so expect a knockout like Wladimir’s – without the clinch skill or defence.

Tyson Fury-Dominance but disappointment

Saturday night’s card was a nice mix, with Chris Eubank Jr. fighting against Bradley Pryce and Tyson Fury taking on American defense specialist Kevin ‘Kingpin’ Johnson. Over 12 rounds, Fury displayed decent boxing skill and restraint. The Fury of a few fights ago would have brawled with Johnson, fighting a risky fight. Instead Fury produced a Klitschko-esque display of dominance, jabbing at Johnson for long periods before unleashing some nice right hands through Johnson’s guard. It was clear from the start that Johnson was in ‘Safetypin’ mode, and it was really just a war of attrition. Fury detractors will point to his lack of power, not knocking Johnson down/out. Fury fanboys will point to the similar fight that Vitali Klitschko had against the man. I believe the 12 round unanimous decision was the best result Fury could get. If he knocked Johnson out, many people myself included would claim Johnson was a shadow of his former self. Fury is showing himself to be a growing fighter, getting better in every fight. Johnson was another step up the quality ladder for Fury.

Overall, a nice display of a growing fighter with plenty of ambition and heart. The Fury/Price fight is the one on every British fans minds, but I don’t see it happening unfortunately I think Fury should continue on his climb up the ladder. Boytsov seems like a good choice again, as long as Fury fights quality opposition it’ll be hard to be disappointed.

What do you think? Which fight displayed more about the fighters involved?